CTR WELCOMES MICHELLE ARROYO TO ITS TEAM!
As CTR approaches its 18-month milestone, I'm excited to share a significant development.
As a patient advocate for individuals diagnosed with cancer and other complex diseases, I have consistently supported families whose children are also battling cancer. In 2023, the challenges of caring for children with cancer have been particularly stark, compelling me to think deeply about the scope of CTR's services for children 0-19 with cancer and complex health issues. Adults and children with cancer have distinctly different needs, and the emotional, physical, and financial toll extends to parents, siblings, and grandparents alike. I have identified the need for a dedicated leader to foster robust and compassionate Services for Children, Teens, and Young Adults–Ages 0-19.
I'm honored to publicly announce Michelle Arroyo as the appointed leader of CTR’s Advocacy Services for Young Patients. Leveraging her years of experience, Michelle will design services tailored for Children, Teens, Young Adults, and their families, providing support and guidance throughout their cancer journey. Michelle will join forces with our generous donors and me, many of whom have experienced CTR’s services firsthand, as we endeavor to expand our services nationwide.
Many of you will recognize Michelle as a mother who recently lost her son after a 17-year-long battle with a brain tumor. Michelle's extensive experience with the healthcare system and her relentless pursuit of top-tier healthcare expertise, informed by personal experience, will immensely benefit many. Michelle wishes to honor her son, Grayson, through her service to others, and her desire to provide help during difficult times will be invaluable to families. I'm thrilled to welcome Michelle to CTR as our Youth Services Specialist, fully dedicated to serving patients and their families.
FROM MICHELLE…
I am honored to lead Youth Services at CTR and grateful for the opportunity to work with Candy and her team, in a role more meaningful than anything I could have imagined.
Creating services to support patients with complex diagnoses is near and dear to my heart, especially those tailored for children, teens, and young adults. Life changes in an instant for a family when a young person is diagnosed with cancer. It has been 17 years since my Gray was diagnosed, yet I still remember it as if it were yesterday. From that day forward, what happens next is full of unknowns. Services to guide and support families every step of the way did not exist for us, and I am resolved to provide those services driven by understanding and compassion. Standing by families as they navigate the difficult journey is an honor and a privilege.
It’s been four months since I lost my sweet Gray, and this new venture feels natural. Gray will guide me, and I will continue to move forward as he did. He taught me always to be courageous, regardless of how challenging the path may be, and never to stop putting love out into the world.